Can You Freeze Hummus?

Homemade hummus is an excellent source of protein, healthy fat and fiber. It can be served as a dip or a hummus spread for an easy snack or appetizer. But have you ever thought if you can freeze hummus?

Preparing homemade hummus is easy as it usually includes only a handful of ingredients. Because the creamy, rich texture is such an important part of a hummus dish, many people don’t think about freezing hummus. You’re in luck because you can! Making and freezing hummus in large quantities is a healthy and easy way to have something ready as an appetizer or snack.

How To Freeze Hummus

Before you even think about freezing hummus, you have to know that homemade hummus can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you have purchased hummus from your local store, check the expiration date on the package. It might contain preservatives that will allow the hummus to stay longer in the refrigerator.

If you decide to freeze hummus, you will want to use airtight plastic containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Consider freezing hummus in containers that allow for small quantities. In that way you can defrost only what you need to eat, but there is nothing wrong in freezing larger batches of it. It is just that you do not want to end up defrosting too much at a time. Frozen hummus can be kept in the freezer for up to 6 months. Make sure to label your hummus with contents and date.

Thawing Frozen Hummus

You can thaw frozen hummus in the microwave, however, some parts of the food may actually start to warm or cook before other sections completely thaw.  Since most people enjoy their hummus cold, this method is only suggested if you need it on demand.

Thawing frozen hummus in the refrigerator overnight is a better choice, but takes the longest time. You can also thaw frozen hummus in water but it requires more attention than thawing it in the refrigerator. For this, you have to let the container sit in room-temperature water for a few hours. Then you have to make sure that no water leaks in to the hummus. This process should take a couple of hours.

Hummus that has been frozen can have a slightly different texture after it has been defrosted. This is the case for both homemade and store bought hummus. Once you have thawed the hummus, you will want to stir it well, and maybe even add olive oil to smooth up the texture. You may need to experiment with a few batches of frozen hummus to determine if you have a preferred texture.  For some, homemade hummus is the only way to go in terms of delivering the healthiest version, but for others, the texture after you freeze hummus may be a concern and the store bought option may become your preference.

Homemade Hummus Recipe

You can serve this hummus dip with fresh raw vegetables, or use it as a spread on crackers and pita bread. Preparation time is around twenty minutes and the serving size is for six servings.

Ingredients

2 cups garbanzo beans ((chickpeas) cooked)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1/4 cup lemon juice
1-tablespoon sesame tahini (sesame paste)
2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions
1. For a smooth finish, add beans and lemon juice in a blender and blend until creamy.

2. Add the garlic, tahini and oil. Mix well to desired texture. Serve cold.

FAQs

– Can I freeze hummus that is still in its original package and unopened?

Yes, it is perfectly fine to freeze an unopened package of hummus.

– What’s the most common way to thaw hummus?

The most common way is to thaw hummus in the fridge. Most people are fine letting it thaw for the next day, and it can be easily done without any complicated instructions.